The best cycling routes around Kiltubbrid
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riders
9
rides
Touring cycling around Kiltubbrid offers routes through diverse landscapes, including loughs, wetlands, and woodlands. The region features varied topography, from the tranquil Kiltubbrid Loughs Area of Special Scientific Interest to the rugged backdrop of Slieve an Iarainn mountain. Cyclists can navigate quiet rural roads and dedicated cycling infrastructure, exploring areas characterized by bogs and forested slopes.
Best touring cycling routes around Kiltubbrid
- The most popular touring cycling route is Lough More, Kilcorran Lough and Bellanode loop from Glaslough, a…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
85.1km
05:09
680m
680m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
33.7km
02:03
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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3
riders
45.8km
03:13
690m
690m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
72.5km
04:24
550m
550m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
riders
57.1km
03:31
510m
510m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Kiltubbrid
Tips from the Community
Navan Fort, also known as Emain Macha, is one of those places that literally breathes history. As a cyclist, you can feel a breath of the past here as you roll gently over the grassy hills. The site, rich in Neolithic, Bronze Age and Iron Age finds, is not only archaeologically fascinating, but also firmly embedded in Irish mythology. The kings of Ulster are said to have ruled here, and the legends of Macha, the namesake, are omnipresent. The gentle climbs around the fort are not too demanding, but give you space to let your gaze wander over the green hills - particularly dramatic when dark clouds pile up in the sky and cast a mystical atmosphere over the landscape. A detour to the visitor center is worthwhile: Here you can find out more about the exciting stories and the excavations that provide insight into Ireland's deepest past.
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The Caledon Beam Engine is an exciting relic from another era that will accompany you on your tour through the Northern Ireland countryside. Nestled in the remains of an old wool mill, the beam engine tells of an era when the pounding and banging of machines shaped everyday life. Today it stands almost forgotten by the roadside and is a reminder of the region's industrial past. The ruin has its own charm - rusty gears, weathered walls and a feeling of time standing still. If you want to pause for a moment to take in the surroundings, this is an ideal place to dismount for a moment. This is not about perfectly restored monuments, but about the raw charm and stories that such places carry. Look out for the old inscriptions and the signs of decay that give the Beam Engine an almost sculptural appearance. This place is a silent witness to a time long gone and offers you a welcome change from the wide fields and winding roads of the region.
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The dam is easy to cross and from there you have a great view over the lake and the rolling hills that surround it. The peaceful atmosphere is only occasionally interrupted by the gentle rippling of the water. The reservoir provides fresh drinking water to the surrounding area and the trout fishery here is controlled by the Armagh Angling Club - so it's an interesting spot for anglers. Even if you're not here to fish, the scenery is simply relaxing and it's worth stopping for a few minutes and looking around. The roads around the lake are easy to drive on but there might be a few potholes in places - nothing that would stop a real cyclist. Overall a nice stop to enjoy nature and take a quick breather before moving on.
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If you need a relaxing break on your tour of the region, Basil Sheils Bar and Restaurant is a perfect place to unwind for a moment. The colorful building, surrounded by green trees and colorful flags, immediately catches the eye. A beer garden invites you to reward yourself with a cold drink and a little refreshment for the next stage. I treated myself to a break here after a long ride and enjoyed the rustic ambience. In the courtyard, also called "The Forge", there is a restaurant with rustic food - ideal if you get a little hungry. The atmosphere is relaxed and the people here are friendly, which makes you feel welcome. In addition, overnight accommodation is offered if you want to treat yourself to a little more relaxation after a long day on the bike. It could be a little tidier in some places, but that also gives the place its charming, slightly chaotic character. A cozy stop to recharge your batteries before hitting the road again.
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As you step through the magnificent gate, you will be enveloped by the timelessness of this historic place. The old walls, which shine in the sun, tell stories from times long past and invite you to discover them. The municipality has enriched this treasure trove of history with a library and a museum that attract knowledge seekers and history lovers. In the quiet rooms of the library you can leaf through old writings and be transported back to times gone by, while the museum brings the history of the place and its people to life. After a journey of discovery through history and culture, the Priorat's café beckons with its seductive scent of freshly brewed coffee. Here, in an ambience that wonderfully combines modernity and history, you can take a little time out. Choose from comfortable seating inside or settle on one of the terraces to soak up the rays while munching on delicious pastries. But the Priory has even more to offer. A dreamy little walkway winds from the building down to the river. A path lined with blooming flowers and old trees that acts as an invitation to explore this wonderful terrain in all its splendor.
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Nice little cafe at Benburb Priory. Well worth a stop if you are in the area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Kiltubbrid?
Touring cycling around Kiltubbrid offers a diverse landscape. You'll find routes traversing tranquil loughs and wetlands, with significant areas of bog and woodland. The region also features more rugged topography, including parts of the Slieve an Iarainn mountain, providing varied scenery from gentle plains to forested slopes and hills.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easier ride?
Yes, Kiltubbrid offers moderate routes that are well-suited for beginners or those seeking a less strenuous experience. For example, the Glaslough Coffee Stop – Caledon Beam Engine loop from River Blackwater is a moderate 21.5-mile (34.6 km) path, and the Glaslough Village – Caledon Beam Engine loop from Castle Leslie is another moderate option at 26.7 miles (43.0 km).
What are some challenging touring cycling routes in the Kiltubbrid area?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Lough More, Kilcorran Lough and Bellanode loop from Glaslough is a difficult route. It spans 52.9 miles (85.1 km) with a significant elevation gain of over 670 meters, traversing multiple loughs and offering extensive cycling through varied terrain.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Kiltubbrid are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the challenging Lough More, Kilcorran Lough and Bellanode loop from Glaslough, and the moderate Glaslough Coffee Stop – Caledon Beam Engine loop from River Blackwater.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
The routes often pass through areas of significant natural beauty and historical interest. You can expect to see numerous loughs, such as Lough Scur and the Kiltubbrid Loughs Area of Special Scientific Interest. The backdrop of the Iron Mountains and Slieve an Iarainn also provides stunning views. Along some routes, you might encounter historical sites like St. Bridget's Church of Ireland or man-made monuments such as the Caledon Beam Engine and the Tassagh Viaduct. The Emy Lough is also a notable natural feature.
Are there any traffic-free cycling options in the Kiltubbrid area?
While many routes utilize quiet rural roads, County Leitrim is known for its
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Kiltubbrid?
The best time to go touring cycling in Kiltubbrid is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for more comfortable riding conditions and the full enjoyment of the region's green landscapes and blossoming 'rothar roads'.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Kiltubbrid?
For families, routes with moderate difficulty and shorter distances are ideal. The Glaslough Coffee Stop – Caledon Beam Engine loop from River Blackwater (21.5 miles) and the Glaslough Village – Caledon Beam Engine loop from Castle Leslie (26.7 miles) are both moderate options that could be suitable for families with some cycling experience, offering scenic journeys through rural landscapes.
What kind of elevation gain can I expect on Kiltubbrid's touring cycling routes?
The elevation gain varies significantly depending on the route's difficulty. Moderate routes like the Glaslough Coffee Stop – Caledon Beam Engine loop from River Blackwater typically have around 220-290 meters of ascent. More challenging routes, such as the
Are there places to eat or drink along the cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers opportunities to stop for refreshments. While specific cafes and pubs directly on every route are not detailed, the village of Keshcarrigan is nestled between two lakes and offers scenic spots. Additionally, the Basil Sheils Bar, Restaurant & Beer Garden is a highlight in the broader area that cyclists might find convenient.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Kiltubbrid?
Cyclists exploring Kiltubbrid often praise the diverse landscapes, from tranquil loughs and wetlands to the rugged backdrop of Slieve an Iarainn. The network of quiet rural roads and dedicated cycling infrastructure, combined with the region's natural beauty and historical sites, makes for a rewarding touring experience.
How long do the touring cycling routes typically take to complete?
The duration of routes varies based on their length and difficulty. Moderate routes like the Glaslough Coffee Stop – Caledon Beam Engine loop from River Blackwater (21.5 miles) can take around 2 hours, while longer moderate routes such as the Glaslough Village – Caledon Beam Engine loop from Castle Leslie (26.7 miles) might take about 2 hours 30 minutes. The most difficult routes, like the Lough More, Kilcorran Lough and Bellanode loop from Glaslough (52.9 miles), can take over 5 hours to complete.
Is Kiltubbrid suitable for touring cyclists looking for a multi-day adventure?
Yes, Kiltubbrid and the wider County Leitrim area are well-suited for multi-day touring. The region's extensive network of cycling routes, including the Kingfisher Cycling Trail which traverses the Fermanagh and Leitrim lakelands, offers enough variety and length to plan longer adventures. You can combine several routes or explore different sections of the county, immersing yourself in its natural and cultural heritage over multiple days.
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